NHAI Ensures Highway Safety and Swift Emergency Response Amid Cyclone Arnab in Andhra Pradesh

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has mobilised extensive resources and strengthened emergency preparedness across National Highways in Andhra Pradesh in view of Cyclone Arnab and the associated heavy rainfall and strong winds since 27 October 2026.

Extensive Emergency Arrangements:

NHAI has deployed 32 route-patrolling vehicles, 31 ambulances, 35 cranes/tow-away vehicles, 47 JCBs, 25 chain/power saws, 45 dumpers and 24 Quick Response Teams (QRTs), particularly in the cyclone-affected areas covering the National Highway stretches between Eluru and Srikakulam districts. Field teams are working in close coordination with the respective District Administrations and highway maintenance agencies to ensure commuter safety, promptly address emergencies and maintain uninterrupted traffic movement.

Field-Level Action and Status:

Across the reported National Highway stretches, at least 149 fallen trees have been reported cleared, including 75 on the Siddhantham–Anakapalli and adjoining reported stretches and 74 on the North Coastal Andhra stretches. Additionally, one fallen electric pole has been cleared. Approximately 1,350 potholes have been reported or identified across the stretches, and temporary rectification works are being undertaken at affected locations.

Waterlogging has been reported at multiple locations on NH-16 and NH-516C, including carriageways, service roads and underpasses, due to heavy rainfall, overflowing drains and stagnation of rainwater. JCBs, dewatering pumps and labour have been deployed for water removal and drainage clearance. Temporary earthen drains have also been provided at identified locations to facilitate discharge into nearby water bodies.

Brief traffic interruptions occurred at certain locations on NH-16, including near DIET College, Anakapalli, Yelamanchili, Kasimkota, Satyam Junction, Akkayapalem and Gajuwaka, primarily due to fallen trees. These obstructions have been cleared and traffic restored. No traffic interruptions have been reported on several other monitored stretches, including NH-216 (Kathipudi–Kakinada) and NH-365BG (Khammam–Devarapalle). NHAI teams continue to monitor vulnerable locations and undertake necessary remedial measures.

NHAI continues to monitor vulnerable locations and deploy machinery and personnel for the removal of fallen trees, clearance of stagnant water and rectification of potholes. Commuters are advised to exercise caution, follow traffic advisories issued by local authorities and avoid stopping beneath trees or near vulnerable roadside structures during strong winds. NHAI remains committed to ensuring highway safety, maintaining traffic movement and responding promptly to weather-related emergencies across Andhra Pradesh.

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